March 15th was the big day! We had lots of friends AND family come into Graz for the wedding. It was so great to see so many familiar faces! We only wish we had somehow mangaged to spend more time with everyone.
The ceremony started at 2pm and afterwards everyone moved outside for the "Sekt Empfang" - receiving line with champagne where all the guests were able to greet and congratulate the bride and groom. It was a bit chilly outside; despite the forbodeing gray clouds, we didn't get a single raindrop! Then the real evening got under way.
We started off with a much deserved meal - for guests, bridal party and the happy couple alike - with all sorts of really great Austrian food. We had a selection of soups (my favourite being the pumpkin cream soup!), entreés (Schnitzel, Mostbraten - roast in an apple wine sauce - and a few more good tasting dishes) and lots of salads on the side.
The evening program was next on the list. There was fun for everyone. We enjoyed a funny slide show about the happy couple, watched a personal video from a good friend in Canada wishing us all the best, enjoyed a live performance of a song for the couple. There was even a competitive part of the evening as members of Rebecca's family and Thomas' family competed to answer the most questions correctly about the happy couple and their respective cultures. It was great fun and the prize was a coupon for a romantic evening for Rebecca and Thomas! After a heartfelt speech from the father of the bride, the dance floor was opened. There was all kinds of dancing to follow - everything from the couple's first waltz, to cha-cha-chas, the twist and even a traditional Austrian "Schuhplattler" dance and an American "do-si-do!"
The wedding cakes made a grand entry with sparklers and everyone seemed to be thoroughly impressed! Not only were the cakes good to look at from the outside, but they tasted fabulous on the inside! There were several flavors to choose from - a Styrian inspired cake with apple and pumpkin seed oil (it was amazing!), a tangy orange and a black forest cherry!
Finally, as it came time for the new Mr. and Mrs. Zillinger to leave, the guests formed a long line and on both sides they held candles to light the way to the get-away car!
All in all it was a fabulous day and one we will never forget!
